Charmlee Wilderness Park
Santa Monica Mountains
Distance: 2.8 miles
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Climbing Altitude: 500 feet
Difficulty: 2 (highest 5)
Season: all year round
Recommended rating: 4 (out of 5)
Outline
Introduction
How To Get There
Starting the Hike
Exploring the Trail
Visiting Charmlee Wilderness Park
Conclusion
FAQs
Links
Introduction
If you’re looking for a perfect outdoor escape from the bustling city life, Charmlee Wilderness Park is a must-visit destination. This 524-acre park on the Malibu coast boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, cool summer breezes, and lush oak trees. The park is home to wild animals, such as deer, raccoon dogs, wildcats, and rabbits, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and hikers. This hiking guide will take you through a detailed trail guide to help you plan and enjoy your trip to Charmlee Wilderness Park.
How To Get There
Charmlee Wilderness Park is just off the Pacific Coast Highway, and getting there is pretty straightforward. If you’re coming from LA, take the 101 Fwy North – Westlake (23 Hwy) Left – Encinal Canyon Road and 10 Fwy West – PCH – Encinal Canyon Road. Once you get to the entrance to the parking lot, pay the $3 parking fee in an envelope, and leave the receipt visible on the windshield.
Starting the Hike
Once you’ve paid for your parking, you can create your hike right away. The trail starts along the paved road from the entrance. Walking along the road, you’ll see faded picnic tables under the shade of trees on your left. At the point where the first road splits, take a left and walk towards the area where you can see the Pacific Ocean on the right. You’ll be able to see mansions built towards the coast and the cars winding along Route 1, down the hill where the cool breeze blows.
Exploring the Trail
If you turn left at the point where you can see the sea, you’ll pass a reservoir where the water has dried up. Go down to the bottom, and you’ll see a hiking trail that leads to the starting point. In the spring, wildflowers grow in this area, and white and purple flowers that are uncommon in other places grow here abundantly. As you walk further into the park, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. You’ll walk through various terrains, from meadows to oak forests and canyons.
One of the highlights of Charmlee Wilderness Park is the stunning coastal ridge that overlooks the Malibu coast. White and purple wildflowers form colonies on the coastal bank, making it a perfect spot for a photo opportunity. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife, such as deer and rabbits. The park also holds various events, such as flower fields and full moon walks, allowing visitors to experience the park uniquely.
Visiting Charmlee Wilderness Park
Charmlee Wilderness Park is open from 8:00 a.m. to dusk, and the park recommends visitors wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The park has restrooms and water fountains, benches, and picnic tables throughout, where you can take a break and enjoy the scenic views.
Conclusion
Charmlee Wilderness Park is a beautiful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning views of the Malibu coast, vibrant wildflowers, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder why this park is a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts. Whether looking for a peaceful afternoon walk or a challenging hike, Charmlee Wilderness Park has something for everyone. So, pack your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and head out to this hidden gem in the hills of Malibu. You won’t be disappointed.
FAQ
- What is the best time of year to visit Charmlee Wilderness Park? A: The park is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is spring when wildflowers are in full bloom. In the summer, cool ocean breezes provide relief from the heat, and in the fall, the changing colors of the leaves are a sight to behold.
- Are there any restrooms or facilities at the park? A: Yes, restrooms are available at the park near the parking lot.
- Can I bring my dog to Charmlee Wilderness Park? A: Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed in the park.
- How long does it take to complete the hiking trail? A: The hiking trail at Charmlee Wilderness Park is approximately 2.4 miles long and takes around 2 hours to complete.
- Is there an entrance fee to the park? A: Yes, a $3 parking fee must be paid upon entering the park.
Links
The official website for Charmlee Wilderness Park: is https://www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=16
